CELTIC chief executive Peter Lawwell insists the absence of rivals Rangers is not the reason for the attendance slump at Parkhead this season.

As the Hoops chief revealed he can’t see any way for the Ibrox outfit to be fast-tracked through the SFL into a revamped top-flight, he blamed the recession for the drop in crowds.

And he reckons Celtic’s Champions League adventure has also played a part in the attendance figures.

Speaking ahead of his side’s 2-0 defeat to Kilmarnock yesterday, he said: “Celtic fans are making choices. We’re in the Champions League so that means Champions League tickets, it means travelling.

“I think the most significant affect on attendances at Celtic Park, and they are not in any way greatly concerning, is the economy.

“There is not enough money to go round for our fans to do everything.”

There has been speculation this season that a league reconstruction plan could see Rangers reach the top-flight in the next year of two. But Lawwell backed Dundee United chief Steven Thompson who last week insisted Gers will not be fast-tracked.

Lawwell said: “They are in the Third Division and it looks like it will take them three or four years to get there.

“In my view, will Rangers get promoted each year? I believe they will. Their resources are greater than any of the clubs they are up against and logically they will be back in the Premier League in four years.”

Lawwell also revealed Celtic would keep a close eye on the possible formation of a European league.

He said: “I don’t think there are discussions going on at the moment.

“I think, for the moment, we are committed to the SPL and doing our best for Scottish football.

“But the world is changing, the world’s got smaller, the strong appear to be getting stronger.

“Events may occur through the media or UEFA that we need to keep tabs on and need to make sure if there is change, Celtic will be a part of it.”